Review: EAM's 'Ancient Ink' illustrates unique stories

In the introduction to the current Erie Art Museum exhibit “Ancient Ink,” there’s a reference to the “tribe of the inked” — those who choose to permanently decorate their skin. Ironically, by tattooing to individualize themselves, to set themselves apart, they become members of a growing clan of similarly marked others.

Since 1979, Pittsburgh photographer Mark Perrott has focused his lens on those in the fellowship, beginning with visits to Island Avenue Tattoo in Pittsburgh and then traveling to tattoo parlors all across the country. The results of the last three years of exploration forms the basis for the local exhibit, filling the museum’s Bacon Gallery now through Jan. 28.

“Filling” is certainly the right word. Perrott’s photos are printed in large form, measuring more than four feet square, using archival ink on rag paper made by the German company Hahnemuhle, which has been producing quality papers for more than six centuries. The paper itself seems to be having a say in the exhibit, as edges curl and lift away from the wall but never detract from the crisp images at their centers.

Those portraits feature individuals of a certain age, including Jim, retired city planner; Marge, a 74-year-old former Cleveland police officer; and Henry, an 87-year-old World War II-era Navy vet. What makes Perrott’s approach particularly unusual is that he gives his subjects the freedom to present themselves in the way they want to be seen. He places them on an “X” on the floor and explains the framing dimensions, but otherwise they are able to pose themselves and wear whatever clothing (or none at all) and facial expressions they choose.

The age of the subjects and their prominent tattoos are the most obvious criteria for inclusion in the series, but Perrott’s ability to dig into each one’s history and personal narrative speaks to their resilience and the commonalities experienced during the aging process. There are negatives, of course, but there’s an emancipation that comes with getting to an age where you can do what you want to do without caring what others think.

That’s the case with subjects such as Jim, whose face and chest are adorned with swirling lines and circles and comma shapes that are almost aboriginal in their look. His accompanying text panel tells of others wanting not just to photograph him, but to be in a photo with him, making a connection that makes them part of each others’ story.

Connie shares her story of being an outcast in her community, with the curious always wondering why she got a facial tattoo. “I tattooed my face because it’s me,” she said. “All my tattoos are me.”

But then there’s Ronald’s sweet tale of showing his heart tattoo to his mom and her reaction to it — that’s one person whose opinion matters, whatever our age.

Their stories — of illness, of defiance, of realization — speak to issues of survival, explore the wisdom of age, and are filled with humor, honesty and advice. The images themselves are sharp, bigger than life-size, and the subjects could easily be any family members or friends or fellow citizens one might encounter on a daily basis. Some stand proudly, some coyly, some exhibit a wariness that undoubtedly has come from years of judgment and nonacceptance. Here they are finally accepted and also celebrated for their commitment and courage.

Whether you’re a fan of the art of tattoo or not, the art of Perrott is worth your attention and time.

BE THERE

“Ancient Ink” continues through Jan. 28 in the Erie Art Museum’s Bacon Gallery, 20 E. Fifth St. Hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays, 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is $9 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, and free for members and children under five. Admission is free to all on Wednesdays and the second Sunday of each month. For more details, call 459-5477 or visit www.erieartmuseum.org.